WO2001022834A2

WO2001022834A2 - Vegetarian foodstuff

Info

Publication number: WO2001022834A2
Application number: PCT/IL2000/000594
Authority: WO
Inventors: Pnina Vardi; Konstantin Bloch
Original assignee: Algal Ltd.
Priority date: 1999-09-27
Filing date: 2000-09-26
Publication date: 2001-04-05
Also published as: US20020009479A1; WO2001022834A3; AU7551100A

Abstract

The present invention provides an entrapped health food in capsule or elongated fiber form containing viable unicellular algae, such as Chlorella, Dunaliella and Spirulina and other edible algae cells. In particular it concerns algae cells entrapped in capsules or fibers of salts of alginic acid, such as calcium alginate or alternative edible materials for entrapment. The present invention provides a food where all the physiologically active ingredients are maintained during entrapment. Moreover, the entrapped health food of the present invention enables the algae cells to multiply inside the capsules or fibers and therefore result in an increased number of algae cells per capsule or fiber with preservation of the natural color of the algae.

Description

VEGETARIAN FOODSTUFF

FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a novel health food containing entrapped viable unicellular algae, preferably Chlorella, Dunaliella and Spirulina, which belong to the species of unicellular Chlorophyceae. In particular, it concerns encapsulated live algae cells in semi-permeable capsules or elongated fiber containing live algae cells, comprising salts of alginic acid or alternative edible materials for encapsulation.

Algae contain various physiological active ingredients. Chlorella, Dunaliella and Spirulina are known to be rich in more than 20 different vitamins, amino acids and minerals, are abundant in beta-carotene and chlorophyll, as well as growth factor. Chlorella, Dunaliella and Spirulina are all non-toxic.

Chlorella, is rich in high quality proteins (50-60% of total mass), carbohydrate (15-20%), fat (10-15%), minerals (6%) and 4% moisture. Chlorella is the one of the highest sources of chlorophyll and also contains Chlorella Growth factor and a higher concentration of Vitamin B 12 than beef liver. Chlorella Growth factor has hormone like properties, that has been shown to stimulate tissue repair and promote the growth of children and animals. The synergistic effect of the many nutrients contained in Chlorella help to balance and stabilize functional processes at the cellular level.

Dunaliella algae contain proteins, lipids, sugars and minerals such as iron and calcium. Dunaliella also contains vitamins such as provitamin A and vitamin B group compounds and a variety of other physiologically active ingredients, especially β-carotene.

Chlorella, Spirulina and Dunaliella are used as a health food. They are taken by people and animals in the form of tablets or granules after extraction of the algae in hot water and preparation of a dry powder. Tablets, granules and liquid extracts of Chlorella have been shown to exhibit numerous positive physiological effects. Chlorella stimulates the immune system, displays antioxidant and antitumour activity, exhibits anti-aging properties, has cold preventative action, restores bowel regularity, normalizes bowel flora and stimulates repair of damaged bowels. Chlorella has also been reported to detoxify the body, be useful for post-operative patients, older people, children with growth problems and pregnant women, and is useful in weight gain and weight loss. In addition, Chlorella has been shown to promote solid bone building, healthy gums, teeth and liver. Chlorella is suitable for use in mammals, humans, fish, birds and lower mammals.

U.S. Patent No. 4,915,965 discloses a health food containing Dunaliella algae and a process for production of encapsulated foodstuff containing Dunaliella algae. Dried powder of Dunaliella algae is granulated together with other materials to make a granulation and the granulation is encapsulated in a hard capsule. Dried powder of Dunaliella algae is also suspended in an emulsifier along with other materials to form a suspension and the suspension is encapsulated in a soft capsule. The use of Chlorella in tablet form is disclosed. However, U.S. Patent No. 4, 915,965 does not disclose an encapsulated gel formulation of live algae, such as live Chlorella, Spirulina or Dunaliella. U.S. Patent No. 4,143,162 discloses an encapsulated foodstuff containing a powdered water extract of Chlorella algae. This background art reference differs from the present invention in that powdered water extracts of Chlorella algae are used and not live Chlorella algae.

Japanese Patent No. 59-63146 discloses the use and preparation of encapsulated live algae as a fish food. However, this background art reference does not disclose use of encapsulated algae as a health food or supplement for other species or the use and preparation of fiber containing algae, as is disclosed in the present invention.

Preparation and preservation of Chlorella, Dunaliella or Spirulina either in tablets, granules or in liquid extract may result in destruction of most of the physiologically active ingredients. None of the background art references has taught or suggested the encapsulation of living algae such as Chlorella, Dunaliella and Spirulina or others, in order to retain the effects of the active ingredients for use as a health food or supplement for mammals, humans, lower mammals or birds. Furthermore, none of these background art references has taught or suggested the use or preparation of living algae entrapped in elongated fibers of different lengths and widths. There is thus a widely recognized need for, and it would be highly advantageous to have a product containing entrapped living algae cells, for use in mammals, humans, lower mammals and birds in order to achieve maximal benefit from the active ingredients in the algae, such as is described in the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides an entrapped health food containing viable unicellular algae, preferably Chlorella, Dunaliella and Spirulina. In particular it concerns a food composition for ingestion in a non-marine environment comprising encapsulated living algae cells. In addition the present invention provides a food composition comprising elongated fibers containing algae cells for use in mammals, humans, lower mammals, fish and birds. Algae cells are entrapped in capsules, or in spaghetti-like fiber form, of salts of alginic acid, such as calcium alginate or of alternative edible materials for entrapment. The present invention provides a food where all the physiologically active ingredients are maintained during entrapment. Moreover, the entrapped health food of the present invention enables the algae cells to multiply inside the capsules or fibers and therefore result in an increased number of algae cells per capsule or fiber. The capacity of the algae to multiply is possible due to exposure to light, the expandable matrix of the capsule or fiber and flux of nutrition to the algae is possible through the semi-permeable matrix of the capsule or fiber. According to the teachings of the present invention there is provided in a first embodiment a food composition for ingestion in a non-marine environment comprising entrapped living algae cells.

In a preferred embodiment the living algae cells include Chlorella. In a preferred embodiment the living algae cells include Dunaliella. In a preferred embodiment the living algae cells include Spirulina.

In a preferred embodiment the living algae cells include a mixture of Chlorella and Spirulina.

In a preferred embodiment the entrapped living algae cells are encapsulated. In a preferred embodiment the entrapped living algae cells are elongated fiber containing algae cells. In a preferred embodiment the living algae cells are present in a concentration of from about 1,000 to about 100,000,000 living algae cells per cm³ of capsule.

In a preferred embodiment the food composition further comprises a food flavoring. In a preferred embodiment the food composition further comprises a food coloring.

In a preferred embodiment the entrapped living algae is kept under light for extended time intervals.

In a preferred embodiment the entrapped living algae is kept in the dark at 4°C for variable time periods.

In a preferred embodiment the food composition is suitable for mammals.

In a preferred embodiment the food composition is suitable for humans.

In a preferred embodiment the food composition is suitable for lower mammals. In a preferred embodiment the food composition is suitable for birds.

In a preferred embodiment the food composition is used as a vegetarian food.

In a preferred embodiment the food composition is used as a food supplement for animals.

In a preferred embodiment the food composition is used for the treatment selected from the group consisting of stimulating the immune system, antioxidant and antitumour activity, anti-viral activity, anti-allergy properties, anti-aging properties, cold preventative action, restoring bowel regularity, normalizing bowel flora, stimulating repair of damaged bowel, detoxifying the body, post-operative aid, aiding children with growth problems, pregnancy, weight gain, weight loss, solid bone building, healthy gums, teeth or liver and combinations thereof.

In a preferred embodiment the treatment includes preventative treatment.

In a preferred embodiment the food composition is a vitamin supplement.

In a preferred embodiment the vitamin supplement is a vitamin B supplement.

In a preferred embodiment the vitamin B supplement is a vitamin B12 supplement.

In a preferred embodiment the vitamin supplement is a provitamin A supplement. In a preferred embodiment the food supplement is a chlorophyll supplement.

In a preferred embodiment the food composition is a β-carotene supplement.

In a preferred embodiment the food composition is a Chlorella Growth Factor supplement. In a preferred embodiment the food composition is a mineral supplement.

In a second embodiment the present invention provides a food composition comprising fiber containing living algae cells.

In a preferred embodiment of the fiber containing living algae food composition living algae cells are selected from the group consisting of Chlorella, Dunaliella, Spirulina and mixtures of Chlorella and Spirulina.

In a preferred embodiment of the fiber containing living algae food composition living algae cells are present in a concentration of from about 1,000 to about 100,000,000 living algae cells per cm of capsule.

In a preferred embodiment the fiber containing living algae food composition further comprises a food flavoring.

In a preferred embodiment the fiber containing living algae food composition further comprises a food coloring.

In a preferred embodiment of the fiber containing living algae food composition entrapped living algae is kept under light for extended time intervals. In a preferred embodiment of the fiber containing living algae food composition entrapped living algae is kept in the dark at 4°C for variable time periods.

In a preferred embodiment of the fiber containing living algae food composition the food composition is suitable for a subject selected from the group consisting of mammals, humans, lower mammals, fish and birds. In a preferred embodiment of the fiber containing living algae food composition the food composition is used as a vegetarian food.

In a preferred embodiment of the fiber containing living algae food composition the food composition is used as a food supplement for animals.

In a preferred embodiment of the fiber containing living algae food composition the food composition is used for the treatment selected from the group consisting of stimulating the immune system, antioxidant and antitumour activity, anti-viral activity, anti-allergy properties, anti-aging properties, cold preventative action, restoring bowel regularity, normalizing bowel flora, stimulating repair of damaged bowel, detoxifying the body, post-operative aid, aiding children with growth problems, pregnancy, weight gain, weight loss, solid bone building, healthy gums, teeth or liver and combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment of the fiber containing living algae food composition the treatment includes preventative treatment.

In a preferred embodiment of the fiber containing living algae food composition the food composition is a vitamin supplement.

In a preferred embodiment of the fiber containing living algae food composition the vitamin supplement is selected from the group consisting of vitamin B supplement, vitamin B12 supplement and provitamin A supplement and combinations thereof.

In a preferred embodiment of the fiber containing living algae food composition the food supplement is selected from the group consisting of a chlorophyll supplement, a β-carotene supplement, a Chlorella Growth Factor supplement and a mineral supplement and combinations thereof.

In a third embodiment the present invention provides a method of encapsulating live algae cells in a food composition comprising the steps of: (a) suspending live algae cells in a suitable encapsulating medium to produce an algae mixture; (b) dropping drops of the algae mixture into a setting bath; (c) bubbling a gas non-reactive to the setting bath to reduce distortion and splashing of said drops; and (d) incubating the drops in a setting bath to form encapsulated living algae cells in capsules.

In a preferred embodiment of the method of encapsulating live algae cells the living algae cells include Chlorella.

In a preferred embodiment of the method of encapsulating live algae cells the living algae cells include Dunaliella.

In a preferred embodiment of the method of encapsulating live algae cells the living algae cells include Spirulina. In a preferred embodiment of the method of encapsulating live algae cells the living algae cells include a mixture of Chlorella and Spirulina. In a preferred embodiment of the method of encapsulating live algae cells the encapsulating medium includes a salt of alginic acid.

In a preferred embodiment of the method of encapsulating live algae cells the salt of alginic acid is sodium alginate. In a preferred embodiment of the method of encapsulating live algae cells the encapsulated living algae cells are kept at a temperature of between about 4°C to about 40°C.

In a preferred embodiment of the method of encapsulating live algae cells the encapsulated living algae cells are kept in light for extended time intervals. In a preferred embodiment of the method of encapsulating live algae cells the encapsulated living algae are kept in the dark at 4°C for variable time periods.

In a preferred embodiment of the method of encapsulating live algae cells the setting bath comprises an edible water soluble calcium salt.

In a preferred embodiment of the method of encapsulating live algae cells the capsule is a semi-permeable capsule.

In a fourth embodiment the present invention provides a method of entrapping live algae cells in an elongated fiber form in a food composition comprising the steps of: (a) suspending live algae cells in a suitable entrapping medium to produce an algae mixture; (b) injecting the algae mixture into a setting bath to produce elongated fibers; and (c) incubating the elongated fibers in a setting bath to form live algae cells entrapped in an elongated fiber.

In a preferred embodiment of the method of entrapping live algae cells in an elongated fiber form in a food composition the food composition is selected from the group consisting of a food composition for mammals, humans, lower mammals, birds and fish.

The term 'non-marine environment' as used herein refers to an environment where live fish are absent.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is of a food composition for ingestion in a non-marine environment comprising entrapped living algae cells, preferably containing Chlorella, Dunaliella and Spirulina. In particular the present invention concerns algae cells entrapped in capsules, preferably semi-permeable capsules and more preferably capsules of salts of alginic acid, such as calcium alginate, or alternative edible materials for encapsulation for use as a food or health supplement in mammals, humans, lower mammals and birds.

In addition the present invention concerns algae cells entrapped in fiber, preferably elongated spaghetti-like fibers of salts of alginic acid or alternative edible materials for algae entrapment for use as a food or health supplement in mammals, humans, lower mammals, fish and birds. The capsules or fibers can optionally contain food flavoring, food coloring and other additives. The capsules or fibers are kept under conditions of light, preferably sunlight or artificial light and at temperatures between from about 4°C to temperatures, such as 40°C in medium suitable for viable algae, such as medium containing NH₄.NO₃, CaCl₂.2H₂O, MgSO₄.7H₂O, K₂HPO₄, KH₂PO₄ and NaCl. It is possible to store the algae for variable time periods of at least but not limited to 3 months and preferably 1 month at 4°C in the dark and for extended time periods of at least, but not limited to over one year, preferably for about 3 months under conditions of light. Under conditions of darkness , the algae do not multiply. The addition of light causes the algae to photosynthesize and multiply. The methods of entrapment preserve the natural color of the algae. However, the capsules can be formed in different shapes and different colors. The method of the present invention can also be adopted to form capsules or fibers of different sizes, depending on the intended use of the product. Additives, such as food flavorings, food colorants, and preservatives can optionally be added. The present invention provides a food where all the physiologically active ingredients are maintained during entrapment in encapsulation or in fiber form. Moreover, the entrapped health food of the present invention enables the algae cells to multiply inside the capsules or fibers and therefore result in an increased number of algae cells per capsule or fiber. In this way the entrapped algae has a higher nutritional content. The food composition of the present invention, will therefore be significantly richer in the physiologically active ingredients contained in the algae than algae containing food products of the background art. The encapsulated algae can be ingested by mammals, humans, lower mammals and birds. The elongated fiber containing algae is suitable for use in mammals, humans, lower mammals, fish and birds.

The present invention also provides methods of entrapment of the living algae cells to produce entrapped living algae for use as a health and food supplement.

Fresh algae are used as the starting material for the encapsulated product of the present invention. Living unicellular algae are suspended in a suitable medium such as water, containing various salts for conservation of cell function. The living algae are mixed with edible alginate salts of alginic acid, such as about 0.5 to about 10% sodium alginate or alternative edible materials for encapsulation. Drops of this mixture are dropped from about 2 to about 30 cm into a setting bath containing an edible water-soluble calcium salt, such as calcium chloride, or calcium lactate. The drops (approximately 0.1mm to about 20mm) are left in the bath for a period of between about 1 to about 30 minutes, after which time the capsules become firm and are easily handled without breaking. Capsules are then removed from the bath and washed. The encapsulated algae product is stored in containers in fresh water medium containing various salts, such as NH₄.NO₃, CaCl₂.2H₂O, MgSO₄.7H₂O, K₂HPO₄, KH PO₄ and NaCl. The algae are kept under sunlight or artificial light at between about 4 to about 40°C for various time periods, and alternatively the algae can be kept at 4°C with no light. The living algae cells are typically present in a concentration of from about 1,000 to about 100,000,000 living algae cells per cm of capsule, however higher and lower concentrations are possible.

In an alternative method of encapsulation of the live algae an aqueous solution of sodium alginate or alternative edible materials for encapsulation is co-extruded with living algae to form algae drops coated with alginate solution. The coated drops are then dropped from 2 to about 30 cm into an aqueous setting bath containing as setting agent an edible, water-soluble calcium salt to set the solution to a gel, such as calcium alginate and thereby forms encapsulated algae. Distortion of the drops on entering the setting bath and disruptive splashing of the bath are minimised by bubbling a gas that is non-reactive to the setting bath. The gas forms a foam at the surface of the setting bath so that distortion of the drops and splashing of the alginate solution and algae is reduced. Fresh algae cells are used as the starting material for the spaghetti-like fiber product of the present invention. Living unicellular algae are suspended in a suitable medium such as water, containing various salts for conservation of cell function. The living algae are mixed with edible alginate salts of alginic acid, such as about 0.5 to about 10% sodium alginate or alternative edible materials for algae entrapment. The mixture is injected through a nozzle(s) or needle(s) preferably of about, but not limited to about 1 to about 10mm in diameter, into a setting bath containing calcium chloride or calcium lactate. Fibers are left in the bath for a period of between about 1 to about 30 minutes, after which time the fibers become firm and are easily handled without breaking. Fibers are then removed from the bath and washed. The spaghetti-like fibers containing algae are stored in containers in fresh water medium containing various salts, such as NH₄.NO₃, CaCl₂.2H₂O, MgSO₄.7H₂O, K₂HPO₄, KH PO₄ and NaCl. The algae are kept under sunlight or artificial light at between about 4 to about 40°C for various time periods, or the algae can be kept at 4°C with no light. The living algae cells are typically present in a concentration of from about 1,000 to about 100,000,000 living algae cells per cm³ of fiber, however higher and lower concentrations are possible. The fiber containing algae can have different lengths, widths and shapes.

The food composition of the present invention has many uses. It can be used as a vegetarian type food, preferably as a vegetarian type caviar or pasta for human use. Alternatively, the encapsulated live algae or spaghetti-like fibers containing algae of the present invention can be used as a food supplement for animals.

Additionally, the entrapped live algae can be used as a health supplement. Chlorella has been disclosed to have therapeutic effects in stimulating the immune system, antioxidant and antitumour activity, anti-aging properties, cold preventative action, restoring bowel regularity, normalizing bowel flora, stimulating repair of damaged bowel, detoxifying the body, post-operative aid, aiding children with growth problems, pregnancy, weight gain, weight loss, solid bone building, healthy gums, teeth or liver. The food composition of the present invention can therefore be used for treatment of the aforementioned conditions, or as a preventative treatment.

Algae contain various physiologically active ingredients. Chlorella, Dunaliella and Spirulina are known in the background art to be rich in more than 20 different vitamins, amino acids and minerals, are abundant in beta-carotene and chlorophyll, as well as growth factor. The food composition of the present invention can therefore be used as a supplement of these physiologically active ingredients, such as a vitamin B12 supplement, a chlorophyll supplement and a β-carotene supplement. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description. The invention includes other embodiments and can be practiced or implemented in various ways. Also it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

The present invention may be better understood with reference to the examples and the accompanying description.

Example 1 : Preparation of encapsulated Chlorella for use as a food supplement for mammals, humans and lower mammals

Living unicellular Chlorella algae were suspended in a suitable medium such as water, containing various salts. The medium contained NFLι.NO₃ (0.125 g/L), CaCl₂.2H₂O (0.025 g/L), MgSO₄.7H₂O (0.075 g/L), K₂HPO₄ (0.075 g/L), KH₂PO₄ (0.175 g/L) and NaCl (0.025 g/L) and living algae mixed with edible salts of alginic acid (approximately 1/1, w/v), such as 0.5-10% sodium alginate.

Drops of this mixture were dropped from about 2-30cm into a setting bath containing water (approximately 97%) and an edible water soluble calcium salt (approximately 3%), such as calcium chloride or calcium lactate. The drops (approximately 0.1mm-20mm) were left in the bath for a period of between about 1-30 minutes after which time the capsules became firm and were easily handled without breaking. Capsules were then removed from the bath and washed. The encapsulated algae product was stored in glass or plastic containers with fresh water medium containing various salts. The algae were kept under sunlight or artificial light at between 4-40°C, or alternatively at 4°C in the dark for various time periods of storage. Example 2: Preparation of encapsulated Dunaliella for use as a food supplement for mammals, humans and lower mammals

Living unicellular Dunaliella algae were suspended in a suitable medium such as about 1000ml seawater, containing various salts. The medium contained NaCl (23g), MgCl (5g), Na SO₄ (4g) and living algae mixed with edible salts of alginic acid (approximately 1/1, w/v), such as 0.5-10% sodium alginate.

Drops of this mixture were dropped from about 2-30cm into a setting bath containing water (approximately 98%) and an edible water soluble calcium salt (approximately 2%), such as calcium chloride or calcium lactate. The drops (approximately 0.1mm-20mm) were left in the bath for a period of between about 1-30 minutes after which time the capsules became firm and were easily handled without breaking. Capsules were then removed from the bath and washed. The encapsulated Dunaliella product was stored in glass or plastic containers with fresh water medium containing various salts. The encapsulated Dunaliella algae were kept under sunlight or artificial light at between 4-40°C, or alternatively at 4°C in the dark for various time periods of storage.

Example 3 : Preparation of encapsulated Spirulina for use as a food supplement for mammals, humans and lower mammals Living unicellular Spirulina algae were suspended in a suitable medium such as water containing various salts. The medium contained NaHCO₃ (13.6 g/L), Na₂C0₃ (4.0 g/L), NH₄.NO₃ (1.25 g/L), K₂SO₄ (1.0 g/L), CaCl₂.2H₂O (0.04 g/L), MgSO₄.7H₂O (0.2 g/L), K₂HPO₄ (0.5 g/L), and NaCl (1.0 g/L)and trace metal elements such as, FeCl₃.6H₂O (0.5 mg/L), MnCl₂.4H₂O (0.25 mg/L), ZnCl₂ (0.025 mg/L) and CuSO₄.5H O (0.020 mg/L) and living algae mixed with edible salts of alginic acid (approximately 1/1, w/v), such as 0.5-10% sodium alginate.

Drops of this mixture were dropped from about 2-30cm into a setting bath containing water (approximately 98%) and an edible water soluble calcium salt (approximately 2%), such as calcium chloride or calcium lactate. The drops (approximately 0.1mm-20mm) were left in the bath for a period of between about 1-30 minutes after which time the capsules became firm and were easily handled without breaking. Capsules were then removed from the bath and washed. The encapsulated Spirulina product was stored in glass or plastic containers with fresh water medium containing various salts. The encapsulated Spirulina algae were kept under sunlight or artificial light at between 4-40°C, or alternatively at 4°C in the dark for various time periods of storage.

Example 4: Preparation of encapsulated mixture of Chlorella and Spirulina for use as a food supplement for mammals, humans and lower mammals

A mixture of living unicellular Chlorella algae and Spirulina algae are suspended in a suitable medium such as water, containing various salts. The medium contains NH₄.NO₃ (0.125 g/L), CaCl₂.2H₂O (0.025 g/L), MgSO₄.7H₂O (0.075 g/L), K₂HP0₄ (0.075 g/L), KH₂PO₄ (0.175 g/L) and NaCl (0.025 g L) and living algae mixed with edible salts of alginic acid (approximately 1/1, w/v), such as 0.5-10% sodium alginate.

Drops of this mixture are dropped from about 2-30cm into a setting bath containing water (approximately 98%>) and an edible water soluble calcium salt (approximately 2%), such as calcium chloride or calcium lactate. The drops (approximately 0.1mm-20mm) are left in the bath for a period of between about 1-30 minutes after which time the capsules become firm and are easily handled without breaking. Capsules are then removed from the bath and washed. The encapsulated mixture of Chlorella and Spirulina algae are stored in glass or plastic containers with fresh water medium containing various salts. The encapsulated Chlorella and Spirulina algae are kept under sunlight or artificial light at between 4-40°C, or alternatively at 4°C in the dark for various time periods of storage.

Example 5: Alternative method of encapsulating algae

An aqueous solution of alginate is co-extruded with living algae to form algae drops coated with alginate solution. The coated drops are then dropped from about 2 to 30 cm into an aqueous setting bath containing as setting agent an edible, water-soluble calcium salt to set the solution to a gel, such as calcium alginate and thereby forms encapsulated algae. Distortion of the drops on entering the setting bath and disruptive splashing of the bath are minimised by bubbling a gas that is non-reactive to the setting bath. The gas forms a foam at the surface of the setting bath so that distortion of the drops and splashing of the alginate solution and algae is reduced.

Example 6: Method of preparation of spaghetti-like fiber containing Chlorella Living unicellular Chlorella were suspended in a suitable medium such as water, containing various salts. The medium contained NH₄.NO₃ (0.125 g/L), CaCl₂.2H₂O (0.025 g/L), MgSO₄.7H₂O (0.075 g L), K₂HPO₄ (0.075 g/L), KH₂PO₄ (0.175 g/L) and NaCl (0.025 g/L) and living algae mixed with edible salts of alginic acid (approximately 1/1, w/v), such as 0.5-10%) sodium alginate. The mixture was injected through a needle into a setting bath containing water

(approximately 98%) and an edible water soluble calcium salt (approximately 2%), such as calcium chloride or calcium lactate. The fibers (approximately 1-10mm in diameter) were left in the bath for a period of between about 1-30 minutes after which time the fibers became firm and were easily handled without breaking. Fibers were then removed from the bath and washed. The spaghetti-like fibers containing Chlorella product was stored in glass or plastic containers with fresh water medium containing various salts. The spaghetti-like elongated fibers containing Chlorella product were kept under sunlight or artificial light at between 4-40°C, or alternatively at 4°C in the dark for various time periods of storage.

Example 7: Method of preparation of spaghetti-like fiber containing Dunaliella

Living unicellular Dunaliella were suspended in a suitable medium such as about 1000ml seawater, containing various salts. The medium contained NaCl (23g),

MgC12 (5g), Na SO₄ (4g) and living algae mixed with edible salts of alginic acid (approximately 1/1, w/v), such as 0.5-10% sodium alginate.

The mixture was injected through a needle into a setting bath containing water (approximately 98%) and an edible water soluble calcium salt (approximately 2%), such as calcium chloride or calcium lactate. The fibers (approximately 1-10mm in diameter) were left in the bath for a period of between about 1-30 minutes after which time the fibers became firm and were easily handled without breaking. Fibers were then removed from the bath and washed. The spaghetti-like fibers containing Dunaliella product was stored in glass or plastic containers with fresh water medium containing various salts. The spaghetti-like elongated fibers containing Dunaliella product were kept under sunlight or artificial light at between 4-40°C, or alternatively at 4°C in the dark for various time periods of storage.

Example 8: Method of preparation of spaghetti-like fiber containing Spirulina

Living unicellular Spirulina were suspended in a suitable medium such as water, containing various salts. The medium contained NaHCO₃ (13.6 g/L), Na CO₃

(4.0 g/L), NH₄.NO₃ (1.25 g/L), K₂SO₄ (1.0 g/L), CaCl₂.2H₂O (0.04 g/L),

MgSO₄.7H₂O (0.2 g/L), K₂HP0₄ (0.5 g/L), and NaCl (1.0 g/L)and trace metal elements such as, FeCl₃.6H₂O (0.5 mg/L), MnCl₂.4H₂O (0.25 mg/L), ZnCl₂ (0.025 mg/L) and CuSO₄.5H O (0.020 mg/L) and living algae mixed with edible salts of alginic acid (approximately 1/1, w/v), such as 0.5-10% sodium alginate.

The mixture was injected through a needle into a setting bath containing water (approximately 98%) and an edible water soluble calcium salt (approximately 2%), such as calcium chloride or calcium lactate. The fibers (approximately 1-lOmm in diameter) were left in the bath for a period of between about 1-30 minutes after which time the fibers became firm and were easily handled without breaking. Fibers were then removed from the bath and washed. The spaghetti-like fibers containing Spirulina product was stored in glass or plastic containers with fresh water medium containing various salts. The spaghetti-like elongated fibers containing Spirulina product were kept under sunlight or artificial light at between 4-40°C, or alternatively at 4°C in the dark for various time periods of storage.

Example 9: Method of use of encapsulated algae or spaghetti-like fibre containing algae as a vegetarian food

The encapsulated living algae or fibers containing algae such as Chlorella or Dunaliella or Spirolina were used as a vegetarian food. Chlorella, Dunaliella and Spirulina are extremely nutritious, being rich sources of protein and carbohydrate. Entrapped live algae is useful as a vegetarian type caviar or pasta depending on the entrapment process. A typical serving is from about l-20g, although smaller and larger doses are possible. The encapsulated algae or fiber containing algae has an algae like taste, but can be made optionally sweet or salty using different additives. Alternatively, different additives can be added to produce different flavors, to increase storage and/or freezability. Furthermore, the entrapment of the live algae preserves the natural color of the algae.

Example 10: Method of use of encapsulated algae or spaghetti-like fibers containing algae for preventative and therapeutic means

The encapsulated algae or fibers containing algae of the present invention can be used as a health supplement. Chlorella and Spirulina stimulate the immune system, display antioxidant and antitumour activity, exhibit anti-aging properties, have cold preventative action, restore bowel regularity, normalize bowel flora and stimulate repair of damaged bowel. Chlorella and Spirulina have also been reported to detoxify the body, be useful for post-operative patients, older people, children with growth problems and pregnant women, and is useful in weight gain and weight loss. In addition, Chlorella and Spirulina have been shown to promote solid bone building, healthy gums, teeth and liver.

Dunaliella algae have antioxidant properties and the ability to reduce virus and allergy symptoms. The encapsulated algae or fiber containing algae can be taken as a preventative measure or used for the therapeutic activity in any of the aforementioned indications. Dosing is dependent on the responsiveness of the subject to the encapsulated or fiber containing algae. Preferably the dose is from about 1 to about 20g, however higher or lower doses are possible. The amount received by the subject is controlled. For example, the dose and frequency of dosing would be dependent on the responsiveness of the subject. Persons of ordinary skill in the art can easily determine optimum dosages, dosing methodologies and repetition rates.

Example 11 : Method of use of entrapped living algae as a health supplement Chlorella and Spirulina are rich in high quality proteins (50-60% of total mass), carbohydrate (15-20%), fat (10-15%), minerals (6%) and 4% moisture. Chlorella and Spirulina are one of the highest sources of chlorophyll and also contain Chlorella Growth factor and Spirulina Growth factor, and a higher concentration of Vitamin B12 than beef liver. The encapsulated or fiber containing Chlorella or Spirulina can be taken as a supplement of Vitamin B12, chlorophyll and growth factor or any of the other nutritional constituents contained in the algae. Additionally the entrapped algae can be taken as a health supplement for the combination effect of all the constituents of Chlorella or Spirulina.

Dunaliella algae contain proteins, lipids, sugars and minerals such as iron and calcium. Dunaliella also contains vitamins such as provitamin A and vitamin B group compounds and a variety of other physiologically active ingredients, especially β-carotene. The encapsulated or fiber containing Dunaliella can be taken as a supplement of provitamin A and vitamin B group compounds and as a β-carotene supplement or as a supplement of any of the other nutritional constituents contained in the algae. Additionally the entrapped Dunaliella can be taken as a health supplement for the combination effect of all the constituents of Dunaliella. Dosing is dependent on the responsiveness of the subject to the encapsulated algae. Preferably the dose is from about 1 to about 20g, however higher or lower doses are possible. The amount received by the subject is controlled. For example, the dose and frequency of dosing would be dependent on the responsiveness of the subject. Persons of ordinary skill in the art can easily determine optimum dosages, dosing methodologies and repetition rates.

Example 12: Method of use of entrapped algae as a food supplement for animals

The encapsulated or fiber containing live algae is optionally useful as a food supplement for animals, in a non-marine environment. The encapsulated or fiber containing algae is highly nutritious and is a suitable alternative to available animal foods. Any amount of the encapsulated or fiber containing algae can be optionally used, however a typical amount is calculated depending on the size of the animal.

Example 13 : Method of use of fiber containing algae as a fish food

The fiber containing live algae was used as a food supplement for fish. The fiber containing algae is highly nutritious and is a suitable alternative to available fish foods. The fiber containing algae without wishing to be limited by a single mechanism is hypothesized as being easier to see by the fish than encapsulated algae. Any amount of the fiber containing algae may be used, however a typical amount would be calculated depending on the size of the fish.

It will be appreciated that the above examples and descriptions are intended only to serve as examples, and that many other embodiments are possible within the spirit and the scope of the present invention.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A food composition for ingestion in a non-marine environment comprising entrapped living algae cells.

2. The food composition of claim 1, wherein said living algae cells include Chlorella.

3. The food composition of claim 1 , wherein said living algae cells include Dunaliella.

4. The food composition of claim 1, wherein said living algae cells include Spirulina.

5. The food composition of claim 1, wherein said living algae cells include a mixture of Chlorella and Spirulina.

6. The food composition of claim 1 , wherein said entrapped living algae cells are encapsulated.

7. The food composition of claim 1, wherein said entrapped living algae cells are elongated fiber containing algae cells.

8. The food composition of claim 1, wherein said living algae cells are present in a concentration of from about 1,000 to about 100,000,000 living algae cells per cm³ of capsule.

9. The food composition of claim 1, further comprising a food flavoring.

10. The food composition of claim 1, further comprising a food coloring.

11. The food composition of claim 1 , wherein said entrapped living algae is kept under light for extended time intervals.

12. The food composition of claim 1, wherein said entrapped living algae is kept in the dark at 4°C for variable time periods.

13. The food composition of claim 1 , wherein said food composition is suitable for mammals.

14. The food composition of claim 13, wherein said food composition is suitable for humans.

15. The food composition of claim 1, wherein said food composition is suitable for lower mammals.

16. The food composition of claim 1 , wherein said food composition is suitable for birds.

17. The food composition of claim 1 , wherein said food composition is used as a vegetarian food.

18. The food composition of claim 1 , wherein said food composition is used as a food supplement for animals.

19. The food composition of claim 1, wherein said food composition is used for the treatment selected from the group consisting of stimulating the immune system, antioxidant and antitumour activity, anti-viral activity, anti-allergy properties, anti-aging properties, cold preventative action, restoring bowel regularity, normalizing bowel flora, stimulating repair of damaged bowel, detoxifying the body, post-operative aid, aiding children with growth problems, pregnancy, weight gain, weight loss, solid bone building, healthy gums, teeth or liver and combinations thereof.

20. The food composition of claim 19, wherein said treatment includes preventative treatment.

21. The food composition of claim 1, wherein said food composition is a vitamin supplement.

22. The food composition of claim 21, wherein said vitamin supplement is a vitamin B supplement.

23. The food composition of claim 22, wherein said vitamin B supplement is a vitamin B12 supplement.

24. The food composition of claim 22, wherein said vitamin supplement is a provitamin A supplement.

25. The food composition of claim 1, wherein said food supplement is a chlorophyll supplement.

26. The food composition of claim 1 , wherein said food composition is a β-carotene supplement.

27. The food composition of claim 1 , wherein said food composition is a Chlorella Growth Factor supplement.

28. The food composition of claim 1, wherein said food composition is a mineral supplement.

29. A food composition comprising fiber containing living algae cells.

30. The food composition of claim 29, wherein said living algae cells are selected from the group consisting of Chlorella, Dunaliella, Spirulina and mixtures of Chlorella and Spirulina.

31. The food composition of claim 29, wherein said living algae cells are present in a concentration of from about 1,000 to about 100,000,000 living algae cells per cm³ of capsule.

32. The food composition of claim 29, further comprising a food flavoring.

33. The food composition of claim 29, further comprising a food coloring.

34. The food composition of claim 29, wherein said entrapped living algae is kept under light for extended time intervals.

35. The food composition of claim 29, wherein said entrapped living algae is kept at a temperature of between about 4°C to about 40°C.

36. The food composition of claim 29, wherein said entrapped living algae is kept in the dark at 4°C for variable time periods.

37. The food composition of claim 29, wherein said food composition is suitable for a subject selected from the group consisting of mammals, humans, lower mammals, fish and birds.

38. The food composition of claim 29, wherein said food composition is used as a vegetarian food.

39. The food composition of claim 29, wherein said food composition is used as a food supplement for animals.

40. The food composition of claim 29, wherein said food composition is used for the treatment selected from the group consisting of stimulating the immune system, antioxidant and antitumour activity, anti-viral activity, anti-allergy properties, anti-aging properties, cold preventative action, restoring bowel regularity, normalizing bowel flora, stimulating repair of damaged bowel, detoxifying the body, post-operative aid, aiding children with growth problems, pregnancy, weight gain, weight loss, solid bone building, healthy gums, teeth or liver and combinations thereof.

41. The food composition of claim 40, wherein said treatment includes preventative treatment.

42. The food composition of claim 29, wherein said food composition is a vitamin supplement.

43. The food composition of claim 42, wherein said vitamin supplement is selected from the group consisting of vitamin B supplement, vitamin B12 supplement and provitamin A supplement and combinations thereof.

44. The food composition of claim 29, wherein said food supplement is selected from the group consisting of a chlorophyll supplement, a β-carotene supplement, a Chlorella Growth Factor supplement and a mineral supplement and combinations thereof.

45. A method of encapsulating live algae cells in a food composition comprising the steps of:

(a) suspending live algae cells in a suitable encapsulating medium to produce an algae mixture;

(b) dropping drops of said algae mixture into a setting bath;

(c) bubbling a gas non-reactive to said setting bath to reduce distortion and splashing of said drops; and (d) incubating said drops in a setting bath to form encapsulated living algae cells in capsules.

46. The method of claim 45, wherein said living algae cells include Chlorella.

47. The method of claim 45, wherein said living algae cells include Dunaliella.

48. The method of claim 45, wherein said living algae cells include Spirulina.

49. The method of claim 45, wherein said living algae cells include a mixture of Chlorella and Spirulina.

50. The method of claim 45, wherein said encapsulating medium includes a salt of alginic acid.

51. The method of claim 45, wherein said salt of alginic acid is sodium alginate.

52. The method of claim 45, wherein said encapsulated living algae cells are kept at a temperature of between about 4°C to about 40°C.

53. The method of claim 45, wherein said encapsulated living algae cells are kept in light for extended time intervals.

54. The method of claim 45, wherein said encapsulated living algae are kept in the dark at 4°C for variable time periods.

55. The method of claim 45, wherein said setting bath comprises an edible water soluble calcium salt.

56. The method of claim 45, wherein said capsule is a semi-permeable capsule.

57. A method of entrapping live algae cells in an elongated fiber form in a food composition comprising the steps of:

(a) suspending live algae cells in a suitable entrapping medium to produce an algae mixture;

(b) injecting said algae mixture into a setting bath to produce elongated fibers; and

(c) incubating said elongated fibers in said setting bath to form live algae cells entrapped in an elongated fiber.

58. The method of claim 57, wherein said food composition is selected from the group consisting of a food composition for mammals, humans, lower mammals, birds and fish.